How to Explain a Gap in Your Resume
2020 (and let’s face it, 2021) presented unprecedented challenges in the workforce. Between layoffs and companies going out of business, a lot of people were left without a job. It's scary to be unemployed, and it may have left you with doubts. Don't worry. Getting back into the workforce isn't impossible, but you may be asked about the gap in your resume in interviews. Senior recruiter, Mackenzie, has some advice that we want to share with you today.
How to answer "the question"
Be Honest
The most important thing to do? Be honest! Share how you utilized your time off, and point out applicable skills to the role you’re interviewing for. Explain how just because you've had time off, doesn't mean you're not ready to get back to work.
Don’t worry about sounding professional
Sound like you. Your story is what’s going to separate you from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident, and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve, and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right, for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
How to keep yourself busy while unemployed
Being unemployed isn't ideal, but you can make the most of your time with these three ideas.
Consulting
Have you been consulting this year? Make sure to add which brands you’ve worked with and what you did for them.
Mackenzie says, “I talk to candidates that think it’s silly to add consulting experience, but it shows that you are driven and have still been working.” She adds, “It’s so much better than leaving a gap in your resume and not showing your recent work. That can stray many hiring managers.”
Professional Development
Enroll in a few cheap online courses. We recommend Udemy or Skillpipe for online classes that will help keep your skills sharp. There are hundreds to choose from.
Refresh your portfolio
Give a good cleanse to your portfolio. If there are things from 20 years ago, get rid of them. Surely, your skills have developed since then. If you're finding that your portfolio could use some fluff, work on a few made-up projects that showcase your skills.
These three things are great things to talk about when an interviewer asks you about your gap in employment. There's no shame in resume gaps, but make sure you have an answer to what you were doing during that time. You'll impress employers with a quick answer and how you made the most of your time. You got this!
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